Aligarh Fort, Uttar Pradesh - History, Attraction And More to know

“Aligarh Fort” is a source of pride for Aligarh. The Patwari Nagla city of Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, is home to the Aligarh Fort (Aligarh Qila), which is also known as “Aligarh Qila.” Due to damage, only ruins are left of the majority. The fort is a regular polygon encircled by a deep and wide ditch close to Grand Trunk Road. It carries the magnificent history of the city. As a history enthusiast, you will love this place.

Attraction

The striking architecture of Aligarh Fort, especially its enormous walls and bastions, draws most visitors. The fort also houses a number of historically significant buildings, notably the Chhatri of Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah, a well-known character in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Visitors can also tour the fort complex’s numerous gates, mosques, and temples. Its rich history and beautiful views attract tourists. You can also click some wonderful pictures to make beautiful memories. It is a worth-visit place.

History

It was constructed around 1524–1525 by Muhammad, the son of Kol’s governor, Umar Lodi. Sabit Khan, the governor of this area under Muhammad Shah and Farrukh Siyar, further restored the fort. French engineers under de Boigne and Perron’s direction constructed the modern Aligarh Fort. With the help of French soldier Benoît de Boigne, Madhavrao I of Scindia used it as a depot to exercise and organize his regiments in a European manner, turning it into a stronghold of considerable importance in 1759. The fort is atop a hill at Barauli Marg, north of the Aligarh Muslim University. Every side of it features nearly thirty-foot-tall steep ravines, and the walls include bastions at every angle. Aligarh Muslim University currently controls the Aligarh Fort. A portion of the inside fort houses the university’s Department of Botany. Numerous governors and other landowners have called the fort home, including Sabit Khan, Surajmal Jat in 1753, and Madhavrao Scindia in 1759. Lieutenant Banasaur, the commanding officer of the modern ruler Surajmal Jat, extended the fort three times in 1753, adding a basement, an explosives depot, and an air-cooled kitchen.

Inside/Outside Views

You can overlook the surrounding cityscape from its ramparts, including the busy streets, famous buildings, and a peek of the neighboring countryside. Because of the fort’s advantageous location, visitors may enjoy a comprehensive perspective of Aligarh’s contemporary lifestyle and historical significance. Various historical buildings, architectural marvels, and cultural artifacts can be found within the Aligarh Fort. The expansive complex showcases the area’s rich legacy with its elaborate palaces, large halls, and well-preserved gardens. Extensive carvings, intricate embellishments, and possibly even the remains of old fortifications await you as you venture further, providing a window into the fort’s colorful history.

Opening Hours

Saturday 1:30–5 PM

Sunday 9 AM–12PM & 1:30–5 PM

Monday 10 AM–12:30PM & 1:30–5 PM

Tuesday 10 AM–12 PM & 1–5 PM

Wednesday 10 AM–12 PM & 1–5 PM

Thursday 9 AM–5 PM

Friday 9 AM–12 PM & 2:15–5 PM

How to Reach

By Air: Kheria Airport in Agra, located roughly 85 miles from Aligarh, is the closest airport. However, this airport does not offer much connectivity. The larger and more easily accessible airport is the 140 km away Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.

By Train: Aligarh has excellent rail connections. The Aligarh Junction is the primary railway station in Aligarh. It is well-connected to numerous Indian cities and is a significant stop on the Delhi-Kolkata rail line.

By Road: Aligarh is well-served by a robust road network that links it to other important cities. Aligarh is on the National Highway 91 (NH 91), which connects it to Ghaziabad.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside Aligarh Fort?

Ans: Yes.

Que-03: What are the best times to visit Aligarh Fort?

Ans: The best time to visit Aligarh Fort is from October to March when the weather is more relaxed and pleasant.

Que-04: What is the architectural style of Aligarh Fort?

Ans: Aligarh Fort features the architectural style prevalent during the Lodhi dynasty, with elements typical of Islamic architecture of that era.

Que-05: What other attractions are there near Aligarh Fort?

Ans: Visitors to Aligarh Fort can also explore other attractions in the City, such as the Maulana Azad Library, Aligarh Muslim University, Sir Syed Academy Museum, and the local markets known for their traditional wear and crafts.